MAT: Master of Arts in Teaching Spanish Student Handbook...Questions, information, letters of...
Transcript of MAT: Master of Arts in Teaching Spanish Student Handbook...Questions, information, letters of...
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MAT: Master of Arts in Teaching Spanish
Student Handbook
Your Future Begins Today
"I have the great pleasure of welcoming you to the College of Arts and Sciences at Lamar
University—your gateway to the future. As the largest and most inclusive academic unit within
the university, the College of Arts and Sciences contributes significantly to the cultural and
academic characteristics that distinguishes Lamar as a Member of the Texas State University
System." – Dean Brenda Nichols
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WELCOME!
This guidebook will serve as a general outline of the nature of the program, admissions
procedures, program requirements, and our graduate faculty. We invite you to browse our
website: https://www.lamar.edu/arts-sciences/english-and-modern-languages/masters-of-arts-in-
teaching-spanish.html offers considerable information on our Masters of Teaching Spanish,
including faculty, programs, and upcoming events.
THE UNIVERSITY, CAMPUS, SCHOOLS, & DEPARTMENT
Lamar University is home to more than 14,000 students; one of the fastest growing universities
in Texas and is a member of The Texas State University System. The university has been
nationally recognized for the quality of its core curriculum and the diversity of its student body.
Small class sizes and a low student-to-faculty ratio allow students to build meaningful
relationships with expert faculty who truly care about their success. Lamar University is
accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Several LU colleges and programs hold additional specialized certifications recognizing their
quality and expertise.
COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES: DEPARTMENT OF ENGLISH AND MODERN
LANGUAGES
This graduate program is a collaborative effort between Lamar University and the University of
Salamanca. It leads to the Master of Arts for Teachers of Spanish (MAT), awarded by Lamar
University. It also includes the distinctive certificates that are awarded by the University of
Salamanca that acknowledge your summer sessions in residence in Spain where you will
complete our Master Interuniversitario Hispano-Norteamericano en Lengua Espanola y Culturas
Hispanas, awarded by the University of Salamanca. The University of Salamanca has a well-
developed curriculum for foreign students who aspire to teach Spanish and its Cursos para
profesores enjoy a high level of academic prestige around the world.
Who might be interested in this kind of degree program?
• Current K-12 Spanish Teachers;
• Students graduating with a degree in Spanish (or a related field) who are seeking to obtain a
master’s degree;
• Current or future community college and university adjunct faculty in Spanish.
This international course of study has been designed specifically for teachers of Spanish,
providing graduate level course work in literature, art, and culture as well as teaching
methodology. The program allows for professional development and career advancement by
enabling participants to improve their language and their teaching skills as well as their
knowledge of Spanish and Hispanic cultures. Its graduates will contribute to improving the
teaching of Spanish in schools and fostering both deeper cultural awareness and improved
language proficiency in their students. The website for the MAT program can be accessed at this
address
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COLLEGE OF GRADUATE STUDIES
College of Graduate Studies
P. O. Box 10078
Beaumont, TX 77710
Tel: (409) 880-8229
Fax: (409) 880-1723
A student admitted to the Spanish graduate program is simultaneously enrolled in the Lamar
University Graduate School. Information may be obtained from https://www.lamar.edu/graduate-
studies/index.html.
GRADUATE FORMS (https://www.lamar.edu/graduate-studies/forms.html)
G-3 Application for Admission to Candidacy for Master's Degree
G-5 Schedule for Oral Examination
G-6 Transfer Credit
G-7 Comprehensive Written and/or Oral Examination
SCHOLARSHIPS
The Office of Graduate Studies offers $1000 academic competitive scholarships based on
recommendations from graduate Department Chairs. Masters/Doctoral students interested in a
scholarship must contact their department to see if they qualify. The criteria required by your
department may be higher than those set by the Graduate Office. The requirements for the Office
of Graduate Studies are as follows:
Students who are awarded scholarships must be fully accepted into a graduate program,
must be in good academic standing, and must be enrolled full-time (9 hours) in the Fall
and Spring semesters. No student will be extended an additional scholarship if their
grade point average is below 3.0 or if they fail to meet any other condition of their
current year scholarship.
Students who begin a scholarship in the Spring semester must be enrolled as full time
students and must enroll in a minimum of 6 credit hours in the Summer.
Non-thesis master’s students in programs requiring 39 or fewer credits will receive two
one thousand dollar scholarships. All thesis master’s students and non-thesis master’s
students in programs requiring 40 or more credits will receive three one thousand dollar
scholarships.
Students enrolled in thesis courses are not required to meet the minimum credit hour
requirement for a scholarship.
Students may enroll for fewer than 9 hours during a long semester or 6 hours during a
summer term but must provide the Graduate Dean with a signed one-time reduced course
load memorandum from the Department Chair verifying approval. Please note that a
student is only eligible for one Reduced Course Load while on scholarship throughout
their academic career.
International students may only enroll for a reduced load in their graduating semester.
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Students removed from the scholarship list for any reason may submit to the Graduate
Dean a letter of appeal that must be accompanied by a letter of support from the student’s
Department Chair. The final decision is made by the Graduate Dean. Out-of-State
students receiving a Non-Resident Tuition Waiver must receive the full $1000
scholarship to be in compliance with Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board
regulations.
• The Graduate Office will not submit Tuition Waivers after the 12th class day of the semester.
ADMISSIONS
Office of Admissions
P.O. Box 10009
Beaumont, TX 77710
Phone: (409) 880-8888
Fax: (409) 880-7419
Website: http://www.lamar.edu
The Lamar University Admissions Office provides complete admissions counseling for new
students. You will find information concerning application deadlines, required supporting
documents and test scores which must be received prior to the deadline to be considered for
admission. You will also be instructed on how to check your admission status.
International students are urged to visit the International Student Services website for up-to-date
information regarding academic programs, the application process, and how to maintain student
visa status.
All applications should be made online at www.applytexas.org, or through Lamar University’s
Graduate Studies webpage. Click on “Admissions” and look for “Apply Texas application
form.” This part of the application requires basic information such as your name, address,
program of study, residency status, etc.
Questions, information, letters of recommendation, and personal statements (see below) should
be sent to
Dr. Christine Bridges Esser
Director MAT Program in Spanish,
P.O. Box 10023
Lamar University
Beaumont, TX 77710
Please note the application deadlines below:
To compete for Teaching Assistantship beginning in the Fall: January 15
To begin in Spring Semester (no financial aid): October 15
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Applicants who wish to begin leveling coursework before their admission to the Graduate School
may do so through Lamar University undergraduate enrollment.
U.S. GRADUATE ADMISSION APPLICATION ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS
A bachelor's degree in Spanish from an accredited college or University, with a minimum
grade point average of 3.0 (on a 4.0 grading scale) in the student's undergraduate major
documented by an official transcript.
Proficiency in the Spanish language. Proficiency may be demonstrated by two options:
o By exam. The official exam determining this proficiency is offered once a year
at Lamar University.
o Students may earn the Diploma in Spanish issued by the Spanish Ministry of
Education, Culture and Sport (Nivel intermedio, B2). The Diploma must be
earned within 3 years of the date of application.
• Three (3) letters of recommendation. At least 2 of these should be from professors. These
letters may be sent by mail or electronically, after applying, to the director of the
Program. Dr. Christine Bridges Esser, Director, Spanish M.A.T, Box 100023, English
Department, Lamar University, Beaumont, TX 77710
• A personal statement, in which you explain your reasons for pursuing the Spanish
Graduate Program. The statement should be written in English. These letters should also
be addressed to the Director (see above) and may be sent after applying.
We do not request GRE scores for admission to the MAT in Spanish program
Although applicants are expected to have a B.A. in Spanish, admission may be
considered for those who otherwise demonstrate the competency necessary for successful
graduate work in Spanish. At a minimum, students lacking advanced coursework in
Spanish will be required to take 4000 level courses in each of the four principal content
areas in which they are deficient: composition, conversation, literature, and culture.
Students must complete these courses with a grade of B or better before beginning the
graduate curriculum, either at Lamar University or at the University of Salamanca
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS GRADUATE ADMISSION APPLICATION
A bachelor's degree in Spanish from an accredited college or University, with a minimum
grade point average of 3.0 (on a 4.0 grading scale) in the student's undergraduate major
documented by an official transcript.
Proficiency in the Spanish language. Proficiency may be demonstrated by two options:
o By exam. The official exam determining this proficiency is offered once a year
at Lamar University.
o Students may earn the Diploma in Spanish issued by the Spanish Ministry of
Education, Culture and Sport (Nivel intermedio, B2). The Diploma must be
earned within 3 years of the date of application.
• Three (3) letters of recommendation. At least 2 of these should be from professors. These
letters may be sent by mail or electronically, after applying, to the director of the
Program. Dr. Christine Bridges Esser, Director, Spanish M.A.T, Box 100023, English
Department, Lamar University, Beaumont, TX 77710
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• A personal statement, in which you explain your reasons for pursuing the Spanish
Graduate Program. The statement should be written in English. These letters should also
be addressed to the Director (see above) and may be sent after applying.
We do not request GRE scores for admission to the MAT in Spanish program
Although applicants are expected to have a B.A. in Spanish, admission may be
considered for those who otherwise demonstrate the competency necessary for successful
graduate work in Spanish. At a minimum, students lacking advanced coursework in
Spanish will be required to take 4000 level courses in each of the four principal content
areas in which they are deficient: composition, conversation, literature, and culture.
Students must complete these courses with a grade of B or better before beginning the
graduate curriculum, either at Lamar University or at the University of Salamanca
Graduate admission is for international students who hold a bachelor's degree and wish to pursue
a master's or doctoral degree at Lamar University. Graduate admission is competitive, and
requirements vary by department. Upon receipt of all university-required documents, the
Admissions Office will forward your file to your desired academic department for an admission
decision. For more information on graduate degree programs, please check the web sites of the
individual academic departments of interest.
Please use your name as it appears on your passport on your application and on all other
communication with Lamar University.
1. Submit Application. All applications should be made online at www.applytexas.org, or
through Lamar University’s Graduate Studies webpage. Click on “Admissions” and look for
“Apply Texas application form.”
2. Submit Transcripts. International Graduate applicants should have an official report of
course-by-course evaluated transcripts sent to Lamar University directly by the evaluating
agency OR should submit official transcripts from each post-secondary university or college
attended. An official statement of the award of the degree or diploma is required for each
degree completed. College work from one institution posted on the transcript of another
institution will not be accepted. Applicants from an institution that does not issue a transcript
in English must submit the native language transcript with an official English translation.
Official translations are prepared by a recognized translation service and include all original
seals and/or signatures.
3. Provide Proof of English Language Proficiency. International applicants must provide
proof of English language proficiency through scores on the TOEFL or IELTS. This testing
requirement is waived only for applicants who have completed at least two consecutive years
of study at a college or university in the U.S. or in an English proficiency-exempt country.
Scores are valid for two years, and must be received directly from the testing agency.
4. English Proficiency Requirements
Regular
Admission
Bridge
Admission
Conditional
TOEFL Internet Based Total 79 61-78 Below 61
TOEFL Computer Based
Total
213 179-212 Below 179
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TOEFL Paper Based Total 550 500-549 Below 500
IELTS Total 6.5 6.0 Below 6.0
Mailing Documents
Copies of transcripts should be sent to the appropriate address below:
Lamar University
Graduate Admissions
P.O. Box 11614
Beaumont TX 77710
(By Courier)
Lamar University
Office of Admissions
211 Redbird Lane
Beaumont TX 77710
AFTER APPLYING
After application materials have been received, the Office of Admissions will send the applicant
an e-mail with a student identification number and a notice of any missing materials. This ID
number, along with the applicant's birth date, can be used to Check Admission Status online.
After the application file is complete, students should expect at least two weeks of processing
time before they receive an acceptance or denial notice via e-mail.
Before attending on-campus classes, students who are under age 22 must either receive a
vaccination against bacterial meningitis or meet specific criteria for declining a vaccination. For
more information on complying with this requirement pursuant to Texas Senate Bill 1107
FINANCIAL AID
Various sources of financial aid are available to graduate students at Lamar University. For more
information, The Financial Aid Office is located on the Lamar campus in the Wimberly
Building, room 216. They are open from 8am - 5pm Monday through Friday with Aid Officers
available to help with questions and needs.
Contact Information
Phone: (409) 880-7011
Fax: (409) 880-8934
Email: [email protected].
Postal Mail : P.O. Box 10042, Beaumont, TX 77710
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School Code
Some lenders or other institutions may ask for our school "code." The LU School Code is
003581.
Departmental Financial Aid
In addition to this campus-wide financial aid, the Graduate Program for the MAT in Spanish
offers a limited number of research and teaching assistantships, for which students apply in the
spring before the assistantship year (April 1 application deadline for Fall).
Candidates for a teaching assistantship should show evidence of good teaching or potential for
good teaching. Candidates for a research assistantship should show evidence of good academic
performance and potential.
The purpose of these assistantships is to provide students with the ability to concentrate on
studies. Other job commitments are strongly discouraged.
The department may also occasionally provide support in the form of associate (part-time)
faculty positions, teaching one or two sections of introductory courses each semester.
*For information or application students should see the Director of the Spanish MAT.
MASTERS OF ARTS FOR TEACHERS OF SPANISH DEGREE REQUIREMENTS
General Description
The Master of Arts for Teachers of Spanish (MAT) consists of a total of 30 graduate credit
hours.
After 27 hours of courses successfully completed with a B or better, students must enroll in the
teaching practicum course. In lieu of a thesis students will take Span 5390 (3hrs) where they will
undertake a teaching Practicum. In this course they will demonstrate in a classroom setting that
they have mastered the teaching methods taught in their Masters studies, present a portfolio of
papers and teaching projects undergone during their studies and give a defense of this portfolio.
By following the prescribed sequence of courses, students may complete the MA in two
continuous summers and one class in each fall and spring session. The two-year cycle includes
curriculum rotation featuring Spain, Latin America, and Mexico/Hispanic United States.
Selected courses are offered during the academic year to supplement the summer offerings. Our
MA program accommodates a variety of student needs and options. Like some of our other
master’s degree programs, Lamar University will offer this program online. It may be completed
in 4 academic semesters and 2 five-week summer courses abroad.
Salamanca Semester: Consortium Agreement transfer credit.
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During the Spanish Peninsular rotation, up to nine hours of course work will be completed
during a summer Study Abroad experience in Salamanca, Spain. Credit for these classes is
treated as Consortium agreement transfer credit from the University of Salamanca to Lamar
University. Since ours is primarily a summer program, all students are expected to complete at
least one summer session in Salamanca as part of the MA experience.
Curriculum
These tables identify the required courses and prescribed electives of the program.
Prefix and
Number COURSES TAUGHT AT LAMAR UNIVERSITY SCH
SPAN
5300
Critical Approaches to Literature and Culture for Teachers
The topic will be related to the teaching of Spanish literature or to the teaching
of an aspect of Hispanic literature or culture.
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SPAN
5310
Acquisition of Spanish as a Second Language and Methods of Teaching
Survey of a selection of studies exploring topics that range from the
development of second language (Spanish) grammars, to second language
production and comprehension, input processing, and the acquisition of
pragmatic and sociolinguistic competence.
3
SPAN
5350
Teaching of Foreign Language to Non Native and Heritage Language
Learners
Review of the fundamental issues of Spanish grammar from the perspective of
teaching the language to non-native and Heritage Language learners and
analyzes concepts and methods for learning and teaching language. Teaching
strategies will be discussed and classroom materials will be provided.
3
SPAN
5360
Studies in Latin American Literature Topics in Contemporary Spanish
American Literature
Variable topics course which may include poetry, drama, short story, novel and
essay.
3
SPAN
5370
Studies in Latin American Culture
Analysis of cultural themes of daily life in contemporary Latin America and an
overview of the historical trajectory of the nation. It also provides a complete
panorama of the social, political and economic characteristics of contemporary
Latin America.
3
SPAN
5380
Studies of Hispanic Literatures in the United States
Study of cultural phenomena produced among U.S. Hispanics. The course
focuses on belief systems, artistic production, laws, customs, and other socially
determined behaviors. Topics such as colonization, popular culture,
communication, art, religious syncretism, and native indigenous cultures will be
explored.
3
SPAN
5390
Special Topics in Teaching: Practicum in Teaching
Practicum in selected topics related to the teaching of Spanish, such as
assessment, teaching materials development, the teaching of specific linguistic
skills.
3
10
Prefix and
Number
COURSES TAUGHT AT
THE UNIVERSITY OF SALAMANCA SCH
SPAN
5320
Sintaxis del Espanol. (Spanish Syntax)
Review of the fundamental issues of Spanish grammar from the perspective of
teaching the language to non-native speakers and analyzes concepts and
methods for learning and teaching language. Teaching strategies will be
discussed and classroom materials will be provided.
3
SPAN
5330
Literatura Espanola (Spanish Peninsular Literature)
Variable topics course which may include poetry, drama, short story, novel and
essay.
3
SPAN
5340
Cultura Espanola (Spanish Peninsular Culture)
Analysis of cultural themes of daily life in contemporary Spain and an
overview of the historical trajectory of the nation. It also provides a complete
panorama of the social, political and economic characteristics of contemporary,
democratic Spain.
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Information on the MAT Teaching Portfolio (SPAN 5390)
Purpose of the Requirement
This class is the final requirement of the MAT and gives you the opportunity to demonstrate the
skills and the knowledge you have acquired in the degree program by engaging in an extended
teaching project. It is the culmination of your work and should make a contribution to the field of
the teaching and learning of Spanish.
Identifying Your Topics and Your Director
You should begin thinking about your teaching topics and mapping out a timetable for
completion of each step that is required from the time of your acceptance into the program. You
need to identify a topic that a member of the Lamar University Spanish MAT Program’s faculty
is qualified and willing to direct:
In the areas of pedagogy: Professor Zarzosa , Dr. XXXXXXX, Drs XXXXX (Salamanca)
In the areas of Hispanic Literatures and Cultures (as they relate to the teaching and
learning of Spanish): Dr. Castillon, Dr. XXXXXX, Drs. XXXXX (Salamanca)
By the end of your first academic semester in the program, you should identify your preferred
area of research and ask an appropriate faculty member to serve as your Director. With help from
your Director and from the Graduate Director, identify a second member of the graduate Spanish
faculty to serve on your thesis committee. You should begin work with your director and the
second member of your committee to carry out the preliminary research for your topic. At this
stage, you may want to investigate several possible ideas or directions in order to make the best
choice for your personal interests.
Submitting Your Proposal for Approval
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Gather bibliographic materials and make notes so that you can provide annotations of the most
relevant items as part of your Proposal. Once you have narrowed your focus and defined your
questions with the guidance of your director, write a narrative description of your project divided
into sections, a timetable for completion, and an annotated core bibliography.
Your proposal should be approximately 15 pages in length and it should include the following
items and sub-sections
Title
Introduction to your topic (including background information to provide a context)
Literature review and explanation of your theoretical framework
Research questions / Identification of the gap in research that your study will address
Methodology
Outline of projects
Proposed timeline for completion
Annotated bibliography
In addition, all studies involving projects with human subjects must be approved by the IRB, the
Institutional Review Board, prior to beginning the collection of data. See instructions specified
by The Office of Research and Sponsored Projects Administration (ORSPA).
Submit your Proposal to the Director of Graduate Studies for forwarding to the University of
Salamanca so that a third member of your committee may be identified. If all 3 members of your
Thesis Committee approve your proposal, complete the MAT Thesis Proposal Cover Sheet,
obtain the signatures of your Director and the Graduate Studies Director, sign it, and turn it in
along with a completed G-3 form to the Graduate Secretary. Your proposal must be formally
accepted and your Proposal Cover Sheet must be on file BEFORE you may register for SPAN
5390. You must secure this formal approval the semester before you plan to graduate. In
addition, the date for your Practicum defense must be set in order for you to attend graduation
ceremonies. Filing your MAT Thesis Committee Form Along with your MAT Proposal Cover
Sheet, submit your MAT Advisory Committee Form, signed and dated, to the Graduate Secretary
who will place it in your permanent file.
All coursework must be completed before the thesis defense —including the summer programs
in Spain.
In order to attend graduation ceremonies, the Practicum defense must be scheduled. In planning
for scheduling your Defense and in planning to meet the requirements and timetable established
by the Graduate School Office keep in mind the following:
1. No thesis defense may be scheduled between the dates of May 15-September 1.
2. Thesis Committee members must receive the completed draft of your thesis at least 60
days prior to your defense date. NOTE: Because of the deadlines set by the
Graduate School Office, this means that the completed draft must be submitted at
the beginning of the semester you plan to graduate.
3. You must adhere to the timetable set by the Graduate School Office in order to
graduate as planned. These are rules set by that office and our department plays no part in
setting them. You are responsible for informing yourself and making a realistic timetable
for completion of all necessary steps.
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Graduate School Dates & Deadlines
Since deadlines and memorable dates change every semester, please visit the College of
Graduate Studies website for specific information regarding deadlines.
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APPENDIX 1
LAMAR UNIVERSITY MASTER OF ARTS IN TEACHING SPANISH (M.A.T.) APPOINTMENT OF THESIS ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Date __________________________________________________
Name of Student ________________________________________
University ID ___________________________________________
S.S.N. _________________________________________________
Date of Admission to MAT Program__________________________
ADVISORY COMMITTEE:
We, the undersigned, agree to serve as members of this student’s Program Committee, and to
assist in advising this student and supervising her/his Practicum. Name____________________________________________________
Discipline/Position _________________________________________
Signature _________________________________________________
2nd
Lamar Member
Name ____________________________________________________
Signature__________________________________________________ Salamanca Member
Name_____________________________________________________ Signature___________________________________________________ I hereby approve this Program Committee:
Signed ____________________________________ Date _________________
(Graduate Advisor) Note:
Unless extenuating circumstances arise, the committee members listed on this document should be the same who will sign the
approval of the Practicum following its defense by the student. This document is strictly for internal record-keeping purposes.
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APPENDIX 2
MAT PRACTICUM PROPOSAL COVER SHEET
Date___________________________________________
Name__________________________________________
Tentative Practicum Title:
_____________________________________________________________________________
Approval of Proposal (The student and all three members of the committee should type or print their names, sign and
date this Form. The student's signature indicates that s/he submits the proposal in its current
form. The committee members' signatures indicate that each approves the proposal in its current
form.)
STUDENT
Name____________________________________________________________
Signature_________________________________________________________
Date_____________________
PRACTICUM DIRECTOR
Name ______________________________________________________________
Signature____________________________________________________________
Date_______________________
COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Name_______________________________________________________________
Signature ____________________________________________________________
Date________________________
Name_____________________________________________________________
Signature __________________________________________________________
Date__________________________
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APPENDIX 3
Study Abroad Required Forms www.artssciences.lamar.edu/study-abroad/forms/index.html
Self-projected Budget
0. Application Check List
1. IEFG Application
2. Release & Waiver of Liability
3. Student Code of Conduct
4. Health & Repatriation Insurance
5. Health Information
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Salamanca2014
Study Abroad Handbook
A useful guide to your summer study abroad experience
The usefulness of this handbook depends on student input.
What's Inside?
Table of contents:
Program Contacts .............................................................................................. 15
Program Introduction ........................................................................................ 17
The Program in Salamanca
Calendar ............................................................................................................ 16
Program Directors ...............................................................................................17
Returning Home ..................................................................................................16
Salamanca............................................................................................................17
University of Salamanca .....................................................................................18
Academic Program ............................................................................................ 18
Life in Salamanca
Cultural Differences ...........................................................................................27
E-mail ................................................................................................................ 24
Housing .............................................................................................................. 21
Local Transportation ..........................................................................................24
Mail .................................................................................................................... 23
Meals .................................................................................................................. 22
Medical Care .......................................................................................................22
Money & Banking................................................................................................23
Packing ................................................................................................................28
Telephones ...........................................................................................................23
Vacation Travel ...................................................................................................26
WiFi on Campus ..................................................................................................24
MAT Director: Dr. Christine Bridges: [email protected]
Salamanca Program coordinator: Professor Zarzosa
E-mail: [email protected]
Your Mailing Address:
Your name
Cursos Internacionales Universidad de Salamanca Patio de Escuelas 2 37008 Salamanca
SPAIN
Telephone: 011-34-923-29-44-18 Fax 011-34-923-29-45-04
While it contains specific MAT program information, this handbook contains information
relevant to all students going to Spain. It should be used now as you prepare to leave and later
while you are abroad. Since most student questions are addressed in these handbooks, please
consult them before calling the Director of the MAT program.
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The Program in Salamanca Calendar 2014
June 30 .............................................................................Arrival date
July 1 ................................Meet under the clock in the Plaza Mayor
.........................................Important information and documents will be given
July 2 ......... Placement test for Cursos Internacionales (9 a.m.) ...........................................
Opening ceremony for Summer Courses (12 p.m.) .....................................Class
assignments, student ID and textbooks (7 p.m.)
August 12 .................... .......................................Last day of classes August 13 ......Bus from
Salamanca to Madrid for flights to U.S.
Arrival
June 30, is the official arrival day in Salamanca and you must arrive on or before that day.
To travel independently from Madrid to Salamanca, you can get bus tickets online . There is a
direct bus from Madrid-Barajas Airport to Salamanca. www.Avanzabus.com or you can go to
the Auto Res bus station located at Calle de Fernandez Shaw, 1 (nearest metro: Mendez Alvaro),
or you may travel to Salamanca from the Chamartin train station in Madrid.
July 1 you will meet under the clock in the Plaza Mayor at 11:00 a.m. The families will have a
city and university map that they will give you upon arrival. If you feel that you cannot find your
way to the Plaza Mayor, the family is responsible for seeing that you get there.
The Resident Director will distribute to you:
• Your HTH insurance card
• Your student registration form which contains your registration number. This registration form
MUST be presented to take the placement exam.
• University of Salamanca ID. You will need the student ID to use any of the university facilities
such as the computer rooms or the gym. On the back of the ID card is a quick summary with
hours and phone numbers for all the medical facilities that you can use in Salamanca. You must
present your University of Salamanca ID to use the medical facilities.
• An agenda with information about the time and location of the placement exam, information
about where you will meet to get your levels assignment and textbooks and where your classes
will meet.
Group Bus Arrangements
Lamar University will arrange for a bus on the official arrival date ( June 30) to take students
from the Madrid airport to Salamanca. The departure time will be determined based on specific
flight arrival information. Students are advised to arrange flights that arrive before 10:00 a.m.
Lamar University will arrange for a bus on the official departure date (August 13) to take
students from Salamanca to the Madrid airport. The early morning departure time will be
finalized based on specific flight departure information. Students are advised to arrange flights
that depart late morning (11 a.m. and onward).
Returning Home
If you are traveling independently, you will need to take the following steps:
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1) Approximately two weeks before leaving Salamanca, make a reservation at a Madrid hotel for
at least the night before you fly back to the U.S. Most international flights depart in the late
morning and you should be at the airport at least two and one half hours before the plane leaves.
You will probably feel more relaxed if you spend the night in Madrid rather than rushing with
split-second timing from another city to Madrid on the morning of your flight.
Most students have accumulated so much luggage by the end of the summer that the easiest way
to get to the airport is to share a taxi with other students. Taxi drivers are permitted to take up to
four passengers, and luggage may be stored on the taxi’s roof rack. There is a surcharge for the
taxi to the airport plus each piece of luggage. The price of the taxi will vary on the current
exchange rate of the dollar to Euro, but the average price for a taxi from downtown Madrid to the
airport for 2010 was 35€. You must have cash, as taxi drivers do not accept credit cards.
2) At least three days before traveling, check by computer or call the airline to reconfirm your
return flight. Toll free information is available at any phone by dialing 1003. They will ask for
your flight number. A travel agent will reconfirm your flight for a fee, if you prefer. Note: If you
do not reconfirm your flight, you may get bumped.
3) If you are returning from Salamanca to Madrid by bus, you can purchase your ticket and
reserve a seat in advance on www.avanzabus.com or Auto-Res (the line that links Madrid and
Salamanca) at the local bus station. An express bus (nonstop) departs for Madrid almost every
hour. There are also buses that make several stops between Salamanca and Madrid. The fare is
about $5 lower, but the trip takes much more time. The one-way fare is approximately $20.
Salamanca also has renovated their train station and you can buy tickets in advance online.
Trains arrive at the Chamartin train station in Madrid. The one-way fare is approximately $20.
Program Directors
The Lamar University Program Directors, Dr. Bridges and Prof. Norma Zarzosa will be
available on a regular basis to help you with any academic, housing, health, or adjustment
problems that might arise. She will let you know how to reach her at all times and will come to
your classroom building after class to chat with you and see how you are getting along.
Let the Director know if you are having difficulties of any kind. In case of an emergency, please
be in touch with her on the cell phone.
Salamanca
Salamanca is an ideal program site. It is significantly cooler, quieter and cleaner than Madrid.
The historic city center is a maze of narrow streets and squares with a score of monasteries,
churches and palaces in warm golden sandstone with elaborately carved facades. There are many
pedestrian walkways, and streets are blocked so that sidewalk cafes can extend their tables.
The sun does not set until nearly 10 p.m., and during the long evening thousands of Salmantinos
throng the Plaza Mayor, a huge 18th century square surrounded by an arcade. Cafes fill the
square with tables that attract students, scholars, street artists, musicians and Salamanca’s
leading citizens. An occasional estudiantina, student singing group dressed in black 17th-century
capes and knee pants, serenades with robust and sometimes ribald songs of love, patriotism, and
student life to the accompaniment of mandolin, tambourine and guitar. They expect a small tip
for their entertainment.
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Although Salamanca’s picturesque city center is small and compact, the city itself is an
important, growing metropolis of 170,000 people. You are likely to live in a modern seven- to
nine-story apartment building that is a 10 to 25 minute walk to the historic university buildings
downtown. Salamanca is very much a university town with good bookstores, coffee shops and
other facilities catering to students.
University of Salamanca
Founded in 1218, the University of Salamanca is the oldest university in Spain. In the 16th
century it ranked with Paris, Oxford and Bologna as one of Europe’s principal seats of learning.
During the academic year the University has a student population of 18,000 students from all
over the world. The University’s buildings are spread throughout Salamanca. They are jewels of
Renaissance and Gothic architecture with ornately carved facades in the elaborate Plateresque
style. Try to find the tiny frog sitting on a skull that is carved on the university facade; he’s
supposed to bring you luck on exams.
The University of Salamanca is Spain’s leading national institution in the teaching of Spanish to
foreign students. Nearly a thousand students from virtually all over the world are attracted to the
prestigious summer Cursos Internacionales, which over the course of three decades have
developed a language instruction program of very high quality. Although you will not have
Spanish students in your classes, you will find more than 500 of them in Salamanca taking
classes in French and English. The first day of summer school in Salamanca looks much like any
U.S. campus the last week in August: students in T-shirts and shorts are everywhere, checking
maps, trying to figure out where their classroom buildings are, searching for the bookstore, lining
up to drop and add classes.
Academic Program
The Cursos Internacionales prints a daily newspaper called Marcapasos. The orientation issue is
a trilingual edition in English, Spanish, and French which explains all the things you need to
know for your first day of the program: where the language placement test will be given, how to
find placement test results, and how to pick up your textbooks (which are included in the
program fee). Its map shows the Plaza de Anaya where placement exams are held. The main
office of the Cursos Internacionales is located in the Patio de Escuelas Menores, just behind the
statue of Fray Luis de Leon in front of the facade and main entrance into the university.
Marcapasos also explains how to sign up for weekend trips, film tickets, dance classes, and other
optional activities. Read the paper every day. It tells you everything you need to know to take
full advantage of Cursos activities. You may read previous editions at
http://cursosinternacionales.usal.es, the homepage for Cursos Internacionales.
On the morning of the placement exam, all LU students gather in the Plaza Anaya with the
resident director. The short-answer written exam will take about 30 minutes and will be followed
by a brief exit interview in Spanish. Exam results are distributed and classroom assignments are
posted that evening. Textbooks are distributed and all students receive a folder with the
university symbol.
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When classes begin the next day, you will join other American students and students from other
countries who want to perfect their Spanish language skills. Naturally there will be no Spanish
students in your classes. In fact, since American students typically come to Salamanca for six
weeks while students from other countries remain for four or eight weeks, most students in your
language sections are likely to be from the U.S. You will be placed in one of three grammar
levels—intermediate, advanced or superior— with no more than 15 students per class.
If you feel that you should be in a lower or higher level you may consult with the onsite
Academic Advisor who has an office in the same building where you take classes. Transferring
to a different level requires the Advisor’s signature and may be done only within the first three
days of class. You will receive the books for the level you place into. If you change levels you
must go to the main office at Cursos to get different textbooks. Do not write in your books
until you are sure of your level. If you have written in the original textbooks given to you, you
will have to pay for your new textbooks.
Classes are held Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. with a ten-minute break
between classes. Two hours focus on grammar, one hour on culture, and another hour focuses on
conversation. Most instructors are young, enthusiastic, friendly and ready to give you tips about
what to do and see in Salamanca.
In recent years LU groups have been assigned to classes in the Facultad de Educacion. It is a
walled campus of three buildings on the big ring road above the newest bridge across the river,
Paseo de Canalejas, which is abouta 15-minute walk from the Plaza Mayor.
Locations of your classes will be pointed out during our initial tour of campus.
Course grades depend heavily on the final examination. Not all instructors give midterm
“Don’t think it will be a vacation. It’s fun, but be prepared to study. Don’t expect life in
Spain to be just like in the U.S. You have to make some adjustments.”
Course grades depend heavily on the final examination. Not all instructors give midterm exams.
Exams are given two days before the end of classes to allow professors time to correct exams
and average grades. This does not mean, however, that the last two days do not count toward
attendance. LU participants are required to take final exams.
Review Spanish grammar before you go, brush up on vosotros verb forms, and take along a
familiar Spanish grammar textbook and small bilingual dictionary.
Weekday Meetings
The directors will meet with students Monday through Friday as they leave their last classes to
assist them with any questions they might have. If students need to discuss something at greater
length, a time can be arranged with the directors by appointment.
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Travel Sign-Out Form
On the Thursday before each weekend students who will be traveling that weekend must sign out
on a “Travel Sign-Out Form” so the Directors will know where you will be going. The purpose
of this is for your safety, or in case of emergency. If you purchase a cell phone, please inform the
Director of your number.
Credits
You will receive 9 LU credits for successful participation in the program.
For administrative reasons, all LU participants will receive course equivalencies from the Lamar
University course inventory.
Grades
Final Salamanca grades will be given by the Director of the MAT Program in conjunction with
what you received from the University of Salamanca, based on coursework and any extra work
the Director deems necessary. Grades given by Salamanca are equated to LU grades according
to the following scale.
Sobresaliente A
Notable B
Aprobado C
Suspenso F .
However students need to be aware that the grade given by Salamanca is not the final grade for
the class. Thus you may make sobresaliente from Salamanca yet receive another grade for the
course based on the coursework the Director has given to the student.
All classes must be taken for a letter grade. They may not be taken on a pass/fail basis, nor does
Lamar University permit withdrawals or incompletes for Salamanca course work. LU students
are required to take final exams in all classes.
Attendance
Class attendance forms an integral part of the credit you are earning, and regular class attendance
is expected. Class participation (and therefore class attendance) makes up a portion of your final
grade and more than three unexcused absences will result in a lower grade. In addition, the
University of Salamanca will not award the final certificate for completion of class work to
any student who misses more than three classes during the six-week session. The University
has generously allowed excused absences for students to participate in official excursions; there
is no possibility of permission for an excused absence for any other type of travel or unofficial
excursions. Certificates are not distributed until the last day of class, so any absences after the
final exams could cause a failure.
Non-Credit Options
The University offers optional non-credit courses in guitar, dance, song, cooking and film. You
may register and pay for them in the main office of Cursos.
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Miscellaneous
During the summer, announcements of interest to all students will be posted on bulletin boards in
the secretary’s office of the Cursos Internacionales and included in Marcapasos, which is
distributed to the classrooms daily.
The University bookstore,
located within the main university area, sells textbooks and has a good selection of popular and
academic books. They will mail the books you purchase to the U.S. via boat with delivery in four
to six weeks. Cost of mailing is based on the weight of the books. Several other bookstores in the
university area sell notebooks, pens, etc.
LU students praise the value of intercambios, the chance to exchange an hour of Spanish with a
native speaker for an hour of English. Intercambios offer both practice in speaking Spanish and a
chance to meet new people. You can find a conversation partner through Marcapasos by leaving
your name and phone number saying you would like an intercambios partner. There is a
Marcapasos mailbox inside the main office of the Cursos Internacionales where you may place
your notice, as well as in the main office of the Facultad de Educacion.
Life in Salamanca
Housing
One of the greatest strengths of the Salamanca program is the chance to live in a Spanish home.
You will have the opportunity to speak Spanish, share meals with your Spanish hosts, and to
make contacts and friends through them. For many students the home stay is a highlight of their
time in Spain.
Living with Spanish hosts, however, may mean a substantial change in your living habits as well
as cultural differences to overcome. Be honest, considerate and communicative. Make an effort
to get to know the individuals who have accepted you into their home. Find out whether there are
household rules you are expected to follow, such as cleaning your room, being on time for meals,
asking permission in advance to have visitors, etc. Let your landlady know your plans for the day
so she won’t have to delay meals or wait for you. Let the family know your weekend plans.
Be realistic in your expectations of your housing arrangements. Salamancans who let rooms to
American boarders typically need the additional income. Many accept students almost as sons
and daughters of the family, but not all students and their “families” achieve a close relationship;
instead, their union remains basically a business arrangement. The landlady may worry about
excessive use of hot water, toilet paper, or electricity, and you may feel that she serves
insufficient food in order to minimize costs. Deal promptly and diplomatically with problems. If
a polite and friendly discussion with the landlady does not improve the situation, discuss the
problem immediately with your Directors.
Your LU overseas study fee includes a shared double room and three meals per day while you
are in Salamanca. Your Directors will pay the landladies halfway through the program and one
week prior to the end of class. Laundry service is included in your program fee.
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You will know the name and address of your Salamancan landlady before you leave the U.S., but
no description of the members of the household will be available. Please give your home phone
number to your family before departure.
Meals
In Spain, breakfast is typically only coffee and bread or a sweet roll. The hearty midday meal is
served between 2 and 3 p.m., with a lighter supper beginning at 9:30 or 10 p.m. To ward off
hunger pangs in the intervals, follow the Spanish custom of enjoying a light snack about 11 a.m.
and the merienda about 7 p.m. Most university buildings have a small canteen where you can
buy drinks and snacks.
When you are ready to eat out, (Let your Landlady know in advance); Salamanca offers several
reasonably priced restaurants. There are inexpensive eating establishments in all areas of the city.
The most expensive are the ones around the Plaza Mayor. In most restaurants the most
economical meal is the Menu del dia, a complete meal from entree to dessert for a fixed price.
Medical Care
Students with ID cards from Cursos Internacionales are entitled to free medical consultation at
the following centers:
• MEDICAL CONSULTATION
CONSULTAS MEDICAS
Centro Medico Dr. Cuadrado Calle Pozo Amarillo 31-33, 1o
Tf. 923 268 382 - 923 215 555
Consulta: de lunes a viernes, de 15 a 21 h.
Consultation: Monday -Friday, from 3 pm. to 9 pm.
Policlinica del Hospital de la Santisima Trinidad
Calle Nueva de San Bernardo, 2
Tf.: 923 212700
Consultas de lunes a viernes, de 10 a 14 h. y de 16 a 20 h.
Consultation: Monday -Friday, from 10 am. to 2 pm.
• MEDICAL EMERGENCIES
URGENCIAS MEDICAS
Centro Medico Dr. Cuadrado Tf. 615 859 959
• SURGERY EMERGENCIES
URGENCIAS QUIRURGICAS (24 horas)
Hospital de la Santisima Trinidad
Paseo de Carmelitas (Avenida de Alemania), no. 84 Tf. 923 269 300
Telefono Atencion 24 horas: 902 103 600
You must have your student ID card for all medical services. Dental care is not included, and
you will have to pay for any medications recommended or prescribed. Most pharmacies close at
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9:30 p.m., but there is always a pharmacy “de turno” open late night and weekends. The
pharmacy “de turno” is usually posted on the main door of all pharmacies that are closed.
The insurance plan in which Overseas Study enrolls you provides coverage for accidents or
illnesses and is valid worldwide (except in the U.S.) during the period of the program. The
Cursos medical plan will only provide coverage in Spain.
Money & Banking
The European Union monetary unit is the Euro (€). The Euro functions similarly to the U.S.
dollar in that it is subdivided into 100 cents. There are eight euro coins denominated in 2 and 1
Euros, then 50, 20, 10, 5, 2, and 1 cents. Each Euro coin has a common European face and a face
designed by each monetary member state. All coins can be used in every monetary member
country. There are seven Euro notes which are differently sized and colored, and come in
denominations of 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, and 5. The notes, unlike the coins, do not have
national sides and are completely uniform.
You can change traveler’s checks for currency at banks, post offices, airports, railway stations
and small exchange booths. Banks are open from 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday through Friday—just
when you are in class, but you can also cash traveler’s checks at a Casade Cambio in the Plaza
Mayor that is open until midnight. A much easier way to access money is by using a credit card
or a debit card in ATM machines, which can be found on almost every corner. Visa and
MasterCard (students have had mixed results with other cards) are accepted for purchases and
services
Do not plan to receive money from home by mail. The mail service is not sufficiently
reliable.
You will receive the address of your Spanish landlady before you leave the U.S., but it is safest
to have correspondence sent to the University of Salamanca address on page 3. You may pick up
your mail at classroom no. 4 next to the statue of Fray Luis de Leon, open until 2 p.m., Monday
through Friday. Mail between Spain and the United States takes about one week. Ask your
correspondents to stop sending you letters two weeks before the program ends, as the Cursos
Internacionales makes no provisions for forwarding letters that arrive after you depart.
The main post office is located on Gran Via, 25 and is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-2
p.m. You may also purchase stamps at kiosks where cigarettes are sold. You can mail all
correspondence in boxes marked Buzon with the post office icon on it.
Telephones
Telephone calls from your place of residence are not permitted in general, because local
telephone charges are much higher in Europe than in the United States. Local phone calls are
charged by the minute. Plan to use public telephones.
You can purchase Spanish telephone cards at the post office and at newspaper stands for both
domestic and international calls. It is also very easy to rent or purchase cell phones that have pre-
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paid cards of varying amounts. They are national and work throughout Spain, and international.
You can call the U.S. easily, and you may receive calls from anywhere. The caller pays for the
call, so if family members call you from the U.S., your cell will not be charged.
You may also wish to obtain a calling card from your telephone company before leaving the
United States. With the card you get reduced European rates, and you may use any public
telephone to place calls. You can also make long distance calls by placing a credit card into a slot
on the phone. The call will be billed directly to your credit card.
If you do not have a telephone card or a calling card, you can place international calls from
several locutorios located throughout Salamanca (many take credit cards). Telefonica employees
will give you a direct line to the United States and you may pay with Mastercard or VISA. You
can also use any pay phone at no charge, dial 900-990- 011, which connects you directly to
AT&T, use your home phone card, and you will be billed the U.S. rates. Students can save a
great deal of money by using the locutorios for international calls and restricting the use of cell
phones for local calls and texting.
Cursos Internacionales provides e-mail accounts for summer students, but access is limited due
to the fact that: 1) there are very few terminals; and 2) the computer room that houses them is
open only a few hours each weekday—most of them while you are in class—and is likely to be
closed evenings and weekends. The computer cluster in the San Boal building is open from 10
a.m. - 8:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday. You may wait in line to use a university computer
or pay a modest fee for e-mail and Internet access at several Internet sites that are located
throughout Salamanca. Fees range from $2 to $4 per hour of use, depending on the quality and
speed of the computers available.
Wi-Fi on Campus
The University of Salamanca now has a wireless network available on campus. Access can be
facilitated, but must be requested in advance. LU will send a special e-mail request for those
interested to provide passport numbers to be submitted along with application materials.
General information about the service is available on the Web:
http://lazarillo.usal.es/nportal/components/wifi/en/wifi.jsp
Local Transportation
Salamanca is so compact that most places can be reached in a 20-minute walk. If you are placed
further out and want to ride the bus, the host family will be able to inform you about buses and
schedules. You can hail a taxi almost anywhere. Both buses and taxis are still inexpensive. Bus
passes can be purchased at the main office next to the downtown market next to the Plaza Mayor.
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Social Life
The University offers a diverse program of activities: welcome and farewell parties, sports and
games, photography contests, movies, concerts, plays, etc. Furthermore, you may present your
opinions and literary creations in Spanish, in Marcapasos.
Most places for dancing do not open until 1 a.m.
There are movie theaters in Salamanca and during the summer they run a “ciclo” of the latest and
best movies by Spanish directors. You may purchase reduced fair movie tickets at the Cursos
main office.
Plaza Mayor
The Plaza Mayor is the heart of Salamanca. It is filled with cafes that offer a quick snack and a
cup of coffee. Be aware, though, that sitting at a table in the Plaza Mayor doubles the price of a
drink. There are no free refills of any drinks in Spain.
Sports
Salamanca has four swimming pools that are accessible with the purchase of entrance cards.
Three are located far from downtown. One is close to the Plaza de Toros, all are on bus lines.
The orientation edition of Marcapasos offers information about discount pool passes and access
to the university gym. Private gyms are also an option.
Salamanca Tours
The University of Salamanca organizes free tours led by guides to the city’s principal historic
and artistic landmarks. The tours are listed in the daily edition of Marcapasos.
Day Trips from Salamanca
The University organizes optional tours on weekends in July and August to important cities of
historical interest such as Segovia, La Granja, Madrid, El Escorial and Avila, Toledo, Sevilla and
Granada, Andalucia, Barcelona, and Lisbon, Portugal, for prices ranging from 20 to 140 euros.
Marcapasos publishes the date, price and sign-up deadline for each trip. These tours close out
quickly, so plan to purchase the tickets as soon as you can. The longer trips to Andalucia,
Barcelona and Lisbon are 3-day trips from Friday to Sunday. Students who go on these
excursions are excused from Friday classes. You can also visit these places easily and
inexpensively on your own by train or bus.
Pamplona
The week-long fiesta of San Fermin with its famous running of the bulls (encierro) takes place in
Pamplona for eight noisy, crowded days—the first week and a half in July. Prices, public
intoxication, sexual harassment, and petty crime soar during this period and you are urged to act
with extra caution if you join the sanfermines. Pamplona will be packed with tourists and hotel
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accommodations are almost impossible to find. We recommend that you go through a tourist
agent who can guarantee a hotel room as part of a package. Since this occurs the first weekend
that you are in Salamanca, you need to make your accommodations soon, or like most people
you will find that you will be standing on a seven-hour train or bus trip to Pamplona.
Vacation Travel
The tourist offices in the Plaza Mayor such as Viajes Salamanca (Juanjo Marco) and in the Casa
de las Conchas offer free brochures on the various places to visit in Spain and in the province of
Salamanca. Travel agents offer several inexpensive weekend packages which include travel and
hotel. Students should not take their passports with them to travel within the country. A color
photocopy of the passport is sufficient. In case of lost passport you will need to contact the USA
embassy in Madrid. (Serrano 75 28006 Madrid;Telephone 91587- 2200;
https://es.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/passports/lost-stolen-passports/ )
Buses
Long distance buses are clean, comfortable, on time, air conditioned, inexpensive, and offer a
variety of schedules. Tickets are sold by seat numbers so you are guaranteed a seat. Most long
distance buses are equipped with a VCR and show a movie. They are not equipped with
restrooms.
Salamanca bus station is at Filiberto Villalobos 33 (Telephone 923 23 67 17). Schedules and bus
fares may be found online at www.estacionautobusessalamanca.es.
Trains
Traveling by train is one of the best ways to see Europe, and many economical rail passes are
available. If you plan to travel primarily in Spain (a big country with lots to see), purchase
individual tickets or a Spanish rail pass when you arrive in Spain. Eurail passes are valuable
primarily for students who plan to do extensive travel in several European countries outside
Spain, and these passes must be purchased in the United States. Talk to your travel agent about
your plans and select the rail pass option that best suits your itinerary. Spain offers two types of
trains: regular trains with first- and second-class seating, and the faster and more luxurious
TALGO. The high-speed train AVE goes from Madrid to southern Spain in about three hours
(half the time of the regular trains).
Train station, Paseo de la Estacion; (Telephone 923 22 57 42)
RENFE office, Plaza de la Libertad 10; (Telephone 923 21 24 54)
Through www.renfe.es you can purchase tickets online but have to pick up the tickets at the main
ticket booth at the train station. Both buses and trains take credit cards.
Rental Cars
With a credit card it is possible to rent a car (all major rental companies have an office in
Salamanca). Although somewhat expensive, it can be well worth it if three or four share costs.
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The largest expense is the gas, which costs up to four times as much in Europe as it does in the
United States and is sold by the liter (about a quarter of a gallon). European compact cars,
however, get good gas mileage.
Be aware that some car rental companies have a minimum age requirement (some 23 and some
25) to rent or drive their vehicles. Rental car companies in Salamanca are closed on Sunday.
Weekday hours are 8:30 or 9 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. and 4 - 7 p.m.
Cultural Differences
Acceptable behavior in one culture can be a source of chagrin, amusement and learning in
another. Many Europeans have the impression that Americans talk too loudly in public places,
drink excessively, have lots of money to spend and are more interested in superficial values like
clothing and makeup than in serious conversation or improving their minds. Try not to reinforce
these stereotypes.
On the other hand, what Americans consider “pushy” behavior in traffic or while waiting in lines
is more acceptable in Spain.
American women find that some males in Spain engage in behavior that would be labeled sexual
harassment in this country. They follow women openly and persistently, make suggestive
comments, and stare in a manner that is regarded as intrusive and vulgar in the United States.
Female behavior that is taken for granted in the United States—making eye contact while
passing on the street, saying a friendly “hi” to a passerby, smiling at a stranger— are often
interpreted as “come-ons.” You will have to change your normal responses to avoid harassment.
Dress discretely. Stride firmly away from the unwanted attention and avoid eye contact. Be firm
and direct in rebuffing any unwanted attention. Indicate clearly that you are not interested in the
advances being made.
Living with a family means you may have to make some cultural adaptations. In general,
Spanish senoras have a tendency to treat you in a similar fashion that they would treat their own
children. This may include scolding you if you do not keep your room neat or if you do not eat
everything on your plate. Though the volume of their speech may seem to indicate scolding, their
intention is to treat you as one of their own.
Packing
Travel light. Don’t exceed one medium-sized suitcase or duffel (with shoulder strap) and a tote
bag or small backpack. Experienced travelers rely on a small wardrobe of coordinated outfits.
Take only what you alone can carry comfortably, and save room to take souvenirs and gifts back
home.
Classroom dress in Salamanca is similar to that in the U.S. Jeans are fine for most occasions, and
students wear slacks, skirts and shorts. However, Spaniards in general put a premium on being
well-dressed, and Spanish students do not wear sweats, torn or ragged clothing or the grunge
look. Try to avoid bringing clothes that need to be dry cleaned as it is very expensive in Spain.
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Be prepared for temperatures of 85-95 degrees in Salamanca during the daytime, but also bring
long-sleeved shirts and long pants for cooler evenings when the temperature may dip to 50
degrees. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for Salamanca’s cobblestone streets!
Electrical appliances are more trouble than they are worth. American electrical appliances cannot
be used in Europe without voltage converters and adapter plugs, and even with converters they
do not work well. It is cheaper to purchase a hair dryer (approximately $20) in Spain than to
purchase a converter and adapter.
Almost any product you need, such as toilet articles, hair dryers, etc., can be found at a store
named Carrefour close to the bull ring in Salamanca. It is similar to a Wal-Mart and has
everything from food to clothes.
“Pack a week or two early, you’ll be surprised what you forgot if you put it off to the night or
day before. I should have taken more pairs of comfortable shoes!
Having a backpack for weekend travel is a good idea, too.
Take with you:
Passport
Two color photocopies of your passport
Small bag or backpack for weekend trips
Nice outfit
Bathrobe and slippers
Umbrella
Sweater or light jacket
Long sleeved shirts/ blouses
Long pants
Comfortable walking shoes appropriate for cobblestone streets
Bathing suit, beach towel, sunscreen, flip flops
Travel alarm clock
First aid kit, bandaids, aspirin, Imodium, Q-tips, tissues
Dental floss, chapstick
Tylenol, Advil or other cold remedies
Prescription drugs to last for the whole six weeks
Extra contact lenses or glasses and typewritten copy of your prescription
Contact lens cleaner
Batteries (Expensive in Spain)
Bath towel and washcloth
Spanish-English dictionary, leisure reading in English
Spanish grammar textbook
MP3 player
Pocket knife, cork-screw, spoon (must be in suitcase)
Let’s Go: Spain or other good travel guide